Bardstown High School student Jackson Wimpsett is making a global impact as one of only 40 Smile Train Student Ambassadors nationwide. Smile Train, an international nonprofit, empowers local medical professionals to provide free cleft surgeries and essential follow-up care, including speech and nutrition programs, to children worldwide.
Jackson’s journey with Smile Train began last year when he discovered their ambassador program during a HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) trip to Houston, Texas for a national convention. Poolside on vacation, Jackson submitted his application, igniting a passion that has made him a leader in the Smile Train community.
As a Smile Train Ambassador, Jackson has exceeded expectations. Tasked with raising funds for two cleft surgeries, Jackson has already funded eight at $250 each. With the help of his fellow HOSA Club members and advisor Mrs. Renee Schooling, he’s working toward an ambitious goal of $5,000—enough to fund 20 surgeries. His efforts rank him third in the nation for surgeries financed by a student ambassador.
Jackson and his fellow HOSA members have creatively combined community engagement with fundraising. One effort was “Smilies for Smiles,” where they used the Bardstown High School culinary kitchen to make cake pops with cheerful smiles to sell at Homecoming. For Giving Tuesday, they took their mission to Bardstown’s Courthouse Square, distributing free hot chocolate and sharing information about Smile Train’s life-changing work. Looking ahead, Jackson and his HOSA members are planning a spring event called “Miles for Smiles,” a sponsored run at Tiger Stadium designed to raise even more funds for cleft surgeries.
Reflecting on his journey, Jackson shared, “HOSA pushed me deeper into community service, especially in health care. Smile Train has been an amazing experience—I can see the results of my work. I hope to continue working with Smile Train throughout college.”
Jackson’s work with Smile Train is just one of the many ways he is exploring his passion for healthcare. Through Bardstown High School’s health sciences concentration, he earned a CNA certification last year. As a senior, he is pursuing national certifications through allied health skills: patient care, phlebotomy, and EKG. These certifications will prepare him for opportunities in hospitals or blood centers, aligning with his passion for making a difference in the medical field. As a member of HOSA, Jackson served as treasurer and organized blood drives. Additionally, Jackson serves as a peer tutor in Ms. Beth’s class—an experience that has inspired his plans to pursue a career in developmental disabilities research.
Congratulations, Jackson! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you.
